RCS unites with young global campaigners for Glasgow climate change concert

A live event will be held at Glasgow Royal Concert hall during COP26 to portray the impact of climate change. 

The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland’s Junior Conservatoire will deliver the event, with a number of young performing artists documenting the stories of climate change over the past 20 years. 

Footage will be displayed at the event from National Geographic and NASA, and video messages will be shown from the International Space Station, the Earthshot Prize and young environmental partners. 

Celebrated American conductor Emil de Cou, who has worked with NASA for more than 10 years, will be conducting the young musicians, and singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield will also perform in the 90-minute set. 

Professor Jeffrey Sharkey, principal of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, said: ‘We’re intensely proud to have our young artists of Scotland come together with young leaders from across the planet and powerful advocates for climate action as the world’s attention is focused on our city and our nation. These young artists and activists are the future, our planet’s future, and their message must be heard.’

Jemma Read, global head of Corporate Philanthropy at Bloomberg L.P, said: ‘Young people are uniquely impacted by the adverse effects of climate change. This ambitious platform will enable a diverse collection of young voices to showcase their creativity and demand urgent action to protect our planet. We are delighted to add our support to such a vital and inspiring project.’

Jayni Chase, chairperson, Friends of the Earth U.S., said: ‘Addressing the climate crisis requires moving our hearts, minds and souls into action. By combining live and cinematic images with the power of music and the voices of today’s young leaders and visionaries, Vital Signs of the Planet brings home the urgency for immediate meaningful climate action.

Tickets are £10 (£2.60 concessions) and are on sale now on the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall website.